Debbie Clarke

Children across Scotland can make their school’s Christmas wishes come true – by taking part in a national writing competition.

Sam Hay, author of the Undead Pets series, and cartridgesave.co.uk are inviting children aged between four and eleven to write a short story (maximum 200 words) or poem inspired by winter or Christmas, for a chance to win £1,500 for their school.

The Write Christmas competition, back for its third consecutive year, will select the top 50 entries from across the UK to be published in a special free to download e-book, to be released in December 2016.

In addition, one overall winner will receive a £1,500 grant for their school to spend on books or writing equipment. Two runners up will each secure a £250 each for their schools.

Both the overall winner and the runners up will also get a stocking packed full of festive treats worth £50 for themselves.

The stories or poems will be judged by Sam Hay and a representative from cartridgesave.co.uk.

Sam Hay believes the competition is a great step towards unlocking children’s creativity.

She said: “I’m thrilled to be judging the fantastic Write Christmas story competition again. It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to unleash their imaginations and get writing!

“Christmas has long been an inspirational time for stories; from the Dickens’s classic A Christmas Carol to the much-loved Nutcracker. Christmas is a magical time, full of wonder and excitement. I can’t wait to read this year’s entries!”

Ian Cowley, managing director of cartridgesave.co.uk, added: “The power of children’s imagination is incredible. We want to help cherish their amazing creativity through this challenge. It celebrates their writing ability; creates a lasting testimony through the printable e-book; and nurtures their talent further by providing essential funds to get more printed word into schools.”